Development coach Greg Mellor provides his exclusive summary of how the Richmond-listed players performed at VFL level with Coburg in last Saturday’s match against the Box Hill Hawks.

Dylan Grimes has been working closely with Ben, videoing and giving feedback on his defensive actions, particularly his footwork and sparring techniques.  In a solid performance, it was pleasing to see a strong improvement from him in these areas.

A four-quarter effort from Dave as a key defender.  He is now getting close to being considered again for AFL selection.  His defensive techniques were stronger and less conservative than in recent weeks, and his ability to use the ball well was pleasing to see.

A quiet game from Todd, although he did take a couple of impressive marks and kick two goals. His work rate is good, we just need him to stay in the game for longer.

Continues to develop his defensive side through run-with roles.  Last Saturday, he did a good job on a couple of quality opponents, before copping a knock just after half-time, which sidelined him for the rest of the match.  Should be right to play this weekend, however.

Angus has played a lot of good football this season and dominated at VFL level, but this was not one of those games.  We expect a much better performance next-up.

Tom worked hard and was good early, before dropping away during the middle part of the game.  His last quarter, though, was excellent, with three very strong, contested marks and two shots for goal.  The aim for him is to sustain that effort over four quarters.

Brad continues to be the ultimate professional.  He is assisting Tom Derickx and Todd Elton with their football development.  And, he’s playing some pretty good footy himself, as evidenced with his four goals and nine marks against Box Hill.

Adam worked really hard in his return to VFL level and finished the match with 35 disposals. A feature of his game was his centre-clearance work, which we were really happy with. Uncharacteristically, however, he missed a few targets.  I’m sure he will be better in this area next game.

Due to his sore groins, ‘Jezza’ found it hard to get across the ground when the ball transitioned from offense to defence.  But, when move up forward, he was dangerous, providing several score assists.  It looks like he will have surgery on his adductor muscle, which has significantly hindered him throughout the second half of the year.

Another solid game from Brett.  His ability to be a link player is very important to the team and he is playing his role well.  Despite a quiet start, he managed to finish with 20 possessions.

Probably Andrew’s best game for the year.  He rucked extremely well and constantly gave our midfielders first use of the ball.  His marking continues to improve, but we need more grabs from him like the strong pack mark he took in the third quarter. A Dustin Martin-like baulk and goal from 50 metres out in the last quarter was a significant highlight from the likeable big man.

A strong defensive game from Piva in his return to VFL seniors from the development league.  His ability to engage physically with his opponent at all contests, demonstrated an improvement in his concentration.  Provided some good offensive run in the last quarter, but was a little quieter than usual.  A pleasing game nonetheless.

Coburg 3.1 7.1 12.2 18.4  (112)

Box Hill 5.4 10.11 15.13 20.16  (136)

Goals - Coburg:  Miller 4, Elton 2, Derickx 2, Wheeler 2, Browne, Carnell, A. Maric, Venditti, Contin, Clifton, Graham, N. Maric.

Best - Coburg:  Fahey, Browne, Miller, A. Maric, Verrier, Contin.